The Court of Appeal has suspended the forfeiture of former First Lady Esther Lungu’s 15 double-storey flats, pending the outcome of her appeal against the Economic and Financial Crimes Court’s decision.
Justice Yvonne Chembe granted the stay of execution, allowing her to retain control and possession of the properties until the appeal is resolved.
Ms. Lungu claimed ownership of properties numbered 9334/1, 9334/2, 9334/3, and 9334/4 in State Lodge, Lusaka, estimated to be valued at K66 million.
However, on September 27, 2024, the EFCC at the High Court found that the properties were tainted and ordered their forfeiture.
She appealed against the judgment in the Court of Appeal.
However, the EFCC dismissed her application for a stay of execution pending appeal, stating that she failed to present sufficient grounds or special circumstances to justify such a stay.